Hello, my name is JoAnn Schefka (she/her/hers), nice to meet you! I feel people want to be truly heard, and I will give you the space where you feel comfortable expressing yourself openly. I hope to assist you in setting personal goals, identifying strengths and assisting in growth. I am a Licensed Master's Social worker with 19 years' experience working with a wide range of ages, conditions and life situations. I specialize in working with adults through older adults in areas of depression, anxiety, situational needs and health conditions. I utilize Humanistic, Strength Based and Mindfulness Modalities with Trauma Informed Care. You have taken your first step on your journey toward self-empowerment and growth. I will do my best to make your experience both supportive and informative.
In our first session together, we will review your history so I can get a general picture of where you are coming from that lead you to therapy, and you can express what your needs are. This will start the process of formulating a plan of what you would like to get from your therapy sessions and how I will tailor them to meet your needs.
I am empathetic listener. I will support you. I may make suggestions but with the understanding that you are the decision maker of your life choices. I will not judge you or your situation. My wish is for you to feel comfortable and encouraged. From there, I excel at helping individuals with setting goals, discovering their strengths, and offering new tools to assist with achieving their goals.
I am best to serve adults to older adults. I can serve those with mental health conditions or situational needs, and with health conditions. I can also serve those with secondary substance misuse concerns.
The Humanistic Approach is about helping you reach your potential through attaining self-awareness and personal growth. You would be the leader of your goals, and I will support and guide you on this path of discovery.
This type of treatment is based on the idea that everyone has strengths that can be uncovered and utilized. We would work together to discover your strengths and how they can be applied to your unique situation.
Mindfulness Therapy focuses on being in the present moment. It is the acceptance of thoughts, feelings and senses. Learning and utilizing these techniques can be helpful with the stressors of everyday life. I can introduce these skills to you as a way to cope with everyday stressors, depression, anxiety, etc., if you are interested learning them.
Many individuals have experienced trauma in their lives. It is important to be sensitive and understanding of the impact trauma has on a person. I will create a safe and calming space for you and work with you at your pace.